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webOS is the smart TV operating system on LG televisions. It brings streaming apps, live TV, inputs, settings, recommendations, voice features and supported connected devices into one interface. What you can use depends on your TV model, software generation and country, so check the model-specific menus and local app catalog rather than assuming every LG TV has the same features.

What is webOS on an LG TV?

webOS is the software platform that organizes the smart features of an LG television. From its Home interface, you can open installed apps, switch between live TV and connected inputs, adjust settings and, where supported, access voice controls, recommendations and connected-device features.

The experience is not identical across LG TVs. Model year and webOS generation affect the interface and settings; country and model affect which apps and services are offered. LG’s Content Store is the place to check whether an app is supported for your TV and region: LG’s app installation and availability guidance.

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How do I install apps on an LG smart TV?

  1. Press the Home button on the remote.
  2. Open Apps.
  3. Search for the app you want.
  4. Select the app, then choose Install.

If you cannot find an app, its availability may depend on the TV model or your region. Check the LG Content Store for your specific television rather than relying on a general list of webOS apps.

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How to find your LG TV model and webOS version

Menu labels vary by generation, language and region. LG lists Support > TV Information as an example path on 2023-and-later TVs. On 2020–2022 models, the relevant information may instead be under General or Devices, or another Support path. Use LG’s instructions for your model and region: LG’s guide to finding TV model information.

Confirming the model and software generation before following a menu guide helps avoid instructions meant for a different interface.

How to choose the LG TV startup screen

LG provides different startup-screen instructions for 2026-and-later, 2023–2025, 2021–2022, 2020, 2019, and 2018-and-earlier TVs. Depending on the model, the available choice may let the TV start on Home or return to the most recent external input. The related setting may also involve Quick Start+ or, on older models, Q Start+.

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Because the path and setting names vary by generation, identify your TV first and follow the instructions for that generation: LG’s startup screen and input instructions.

What updates does webOS receive?

LG says its webOS Re:New program provides software updates and version upgrades for five years after purchase. That is an LG-stated program duration, not a guarantee that every LG TV is eligible or receives every upgrade at the same time. Eligibility, rollout timing and included features depend on the model and program terms. Check LG’s information for the exact TV: LG’s webOS Re:New announcement.

What can LG ThinQ add?

The LG ThinQ app can provide phone-based TV controls and launch webOS experiences. LG’s TV Home Hub can also manage compatible smart devices through the TV. Initial setup may involve connecting the TV and phone to Wi-Fi and using the ThinQ app; device and model compatibility varies. See LG’s setup guidance for the relevant TV: LG ThinQ setup guidance.

Accessibility and AI features depend on location

LG describes accessibility menus and an AI chatbot on its US webOS information page. Feature availability is not necessarily the same in every market: LG says some AI functions are offered only in countries that support natural-language processing in the relevant native language. Check the accessibility and AI options on your own TV and LG’s local product information rather than assuming a feature is available worldwide: LG’s US webOS overview.

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What is LG’s Gaming Portal?

LG’s Gaming Portal brings supported games to compatible TVs, with play using a remote control or gamepad depending on the title. In an August 20, 2025 press release, LG said the portal was available in over 30 countries and named cloud gaming services including Amazon Luna, Blacknut, Boosteroid and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Those services are not guaranteed on every TV or in every country; availability depends on location, webOS version and model.

The same release attributed a catalog figure of over 4,000 cloud-based titles and 600 free single- and multiplayer games to Chris Jo, head of LG’s webOS Platform Business Center. These are LG-reported figures, not an independent audit of the catalog. Check the portal on your TV for current local availability and supported titles: LG’s Gaming Portal announcement.

For compatible games, a Magic Remote may be sufficient; some titles support a gamepad. Verify compatibility with the TV and game before buying or pairing a replacement remote or controller. LG’s 2025 announcement notes that US customers can purchase its Magic Remote through ShopTime, but that statement does not establish compatibility with every LG TV.

What to check when comparing webOS TVs

Two LG televisions can offer different webOS experiences. Compare the details that affect how you will actually use the set:

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Quick Recap

  • Model year and webOS generation: these determine interface and menu paths.
  • Local app catalog: confirm that the apps you need are supported for that model and country.
  • Re:New eligibility: check whether the specific model is covered and what updates are included.
  • Inputs and startup settings: look for the input options and startup behavior you want.
  • Regional services: streaming, gaming and connected-device services may differ by market.
  • Accessibility and AI support: check the features and language support available locally.
  • Remote and controller compatibility: confirm support for the accessories and games you plan to use.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.